Good news involving Oscar De La Hoya has come down the chute; it was announced that the "Golden Boy," as well as Felix "Tito" Trinidad, will be headlining the 2014 class of International Boxing Hall of Fame inductees.
De La Hoya, who won world championships in six different weight classes, spent many years as boxing's top box office draw, and served as a catalyst to Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s rise to boxing's financial throne, is still making an impact. He founded Golden Boy Promotions, the biggest rival to Bob Arum's Top Rank, and has acquired a stable of fighters that is frontlined by Saul "Canelo" Alvarez.
Before Alvarez's September clash with Mayweather, De La Hoya checked himself into rehab following a reported cocaine binge at a Las Vegas party. Today, however, De La Hoya is celebrating his recognition.
"This is the dream of everyone who puts on a pair of gloves and steps between the ropes, and through the good and the bad, you always hope that when all is said and done, you put on good fights, entertained the fans and will be remembered for what you did in the ring," De La Hoya said. "To know that I will be in the Hall of Fame with the greats of this sport is humbling, but it's also put a smile on my face that isn't coming off anytime soon."
In one of the biggest fights of his illustrious career, De La Hoya fought Puerto Rican superstar Felix "Tito" Trinidad. Most who watched feel De La Hoya had the fight in hand before an odd change in strategy allowed Trinidad to steal a win. Together, they made for one of the most hyped fights in boxing history, and are forever linked.
"This is tremendous news. I've spent many years in boxing, and I am very happy," Trinidad said. "This is a great honor for me, my father [and trainer, Felix Trinidad Sr.], my family and my whole team. I'm extremely happy to be inducted with all the Puerto Rican boxers already in the Hall of Fame. This is the biggest triumph in my career."
Joining them in the Hall of Fame will be Joe Calzaghe, arguably the best fighter to ever hail from Wales. Calzaghe went through his entire professional career undefeated, finishing with a record of 46-0-0 with 32 knockouts. His closed out his career with signature wins over Mikel Kessler, Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr.
"I'm so excited. I'm very proud and humbled," Calzaghe said. "I think it's amazing to be inducted. This is a massive, massive honor, just fantastic. To receive this honor and be up there with all the legends is the ultimate honor for me. I'm so happy right now, and I can't wait to come to Canastota."
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